Rafts - Parts & Features
Like boats, Rafts are floating structures, but flat and minus the hull. Instead, rafts kept afloat through the materials used to create them such as woods, sealed barrels, inflatable air chambers, pontoons, drums, and extruded polystyrene blocks. Inflatable rafts use durable, multi-layered rubberized fabrics. Depending on its use and size, it may have a superstructure, masts, or rudders.
Rafts were used ever since the 1880s. Traditional Rafts are constructed of wood or reeds. These were for traveling purposes, especially when transporting products for trade. Nowadays, Rafting is already a popular form of recreation, wherein the flexible inflatable boat is used on whitewater.
Move the mouse cursor over the dot to view the definition or function of each part of the Raft.
- Thwarts
These are the inflated tubes which are perpendicular to the main tubes. They keep the shape of the entire Raft and make it more buoyant.
- Valves
Valves are parts of the Raft which allow air to pass through when inflating or deflating the tubes. These should be durable and can be easily accessed.
- D-rings
These are D-shaped metal or steel rings attached on the sides of the Raft. D-rings are used to secure lines or ropes. They are also used when tying your Raft on top of a trailer.
- Floor
The floor of the Raft can either be self-bailing or standard. A standard floor is attached to the main tubes. Once the water gets into the Raft, you need to bail the water out to keep the Raft light and maneuverable. On the other hand, a self-bailing floor does not require manual bailing. As the name implies, it is designed in such a way that when water gets into the Raft, it sheds water off the floor and out of the Raft through holes.
- Tubes
These inflated tubes form the shape of the Raft. Tubes are divided into chambers which provide buoyancy even if one of the chambers is deflated.
Every part and feature plays an important role when it comes to the performance of your Raft. Know the different elements that make up a Raft and learn how they work together to ensure a safe and successful whitewater trip.
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